Cross-frame object reconstruction for image-based cytology applications

Abstract

Methods, computer software, and systems for analyzing a biological specimen (e.g., a cytological specimen) on a slide is provided. Magnified image data frames of the biological specimen are taken at different locations on the slide. An object that is not entirely contained within at least one of the image data frames is identified, and complementary portions of the object respectively located in different ones of the image data frames are matched. A fully integrated object is created from the matched object portions. Attributes of the integrated object are then analyzed.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The field of the present invention generally relates to methods and systems for diagnostically imaging specimens, such as cytological specimens. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] In the medical industry, there is often a need for a laboratory technician, e.g., a cytotechnologist, to review a cytological specimen for the presence of specified cell types. For example, there is presently a need to review a cervico-vaginal Papanicolaou (Pap) smear slides for the presence of malignant or pre-malignant cells. Since its introduction over fifty years ago, Pap smears have been a powerful -tool for detecting cancerous and precancerous cervical lesions. During that time, the Pap smear has been credited with reducing mortality from cervical cancer by as much as 70%. This once precipitous drop in the death rate has slowed however, and the mortality rate in the United States for this preventable disease has remained virtually constant, at about 5,000 per year since ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0029]FIG. 11 is a schematic of a series of image data frames in which partially contained

Problems solved by technology

In one method, the attributes of one of the complementary object portions may either not be analyzed or may be inaccurately analyzed as a normal step in processing the biological specimen.

However, because the integrated object created from the complementary object portions will be accurately analyzed, the non-analysis or inaccurate analysis of the individual complementary object portions is irrelevant.

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